Speaker Series

We create live programs to help spread the word that “passion,” “success” and “Kentucky” are not mutually exclusive terms.

Kentucky to the World (KTW) enhances Kentucky’s image by showcasing the talent, ingenuity, and excellence of outstanding people with strong Kentucky ties.

Kentucky to the world Speaker Series Title Sponsor

By doing that, we are a catalyst for inspiring everyone – no matter their age, geography, or circumstance – to promote a positive narrative about Kentucky and to become image changers themselves.

Take a look at the Kentucky to the World’s Republic Bank Foundation Speaker Series, a collection of people who illustrate the creativity, drive, and success that make Kentucky great.

Featured Program:

Featured

Legacy in Motion: LaVelle Smith’s Dance Journey from Kentucky to Pop Icons - March 5, 2026 / Louisville, KY

An evening of dance, story and stardom through the eyes of one of Kentucky’s own who’s danced and choreographed with Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Diana Ross, Mick Jagger, Janet Jackson and more.

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Speakers & Presenters:

SPEAKER SERIES - Presenters

LaVelle Smith Jr.

Internationally acclaimed dancer, choreographer, and creative consultant

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Alice K. Alt

Interim Executive Director at Kentucky to the World, nonprofit management and fundraising professional

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Dr. Ajmal Zemmar

Dual-trained Physician–Scientist Neurosurgeon
Focuses on developing magnetic robotic technologies for curved trajectories in neurosurgery.

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Al Snow

Professional Wrestler, WWF/WWE superstar; Head Trainer at OVW; Writer, Director and Producer of OVW’s TV show

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Sam Ford

Co-Founder of Innovation Engine

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Rick Redman

Vice President – Corporate Communications, Hillerich & Bradsby Co.

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John “Jack” Andrew Hillerich III

Former President and CEO of Hillerich & Bradsby Co.

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Andrew Swanson

Film & TV insdustry professional

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Stu Pollard

Filmmaker

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Tom O'Connell

Stuntman and actor known for his stunt double roles

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Program History:

Featured

Arts & Sciences, Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation

Legacy in Motion: LaVelle Smith’s Dance Journey from Kentucky to Pop Icons - March 5, 2026 / Louisville, KY

Arts & Sciences, Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation

An evening of dance, story and stardom through the eyes of one of Kentucky’s own who’s danced and choreographed with Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Diana Ross, Mick Jagger, Janet Jackson and more.

Read more →

Arts & Sciences, Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation

Arts & Sciences, Global Connections, Cultural Legacy, Innovation

Legacy in Motion: LaVelle Smith’s Dance Journey from Kentucky to Pop Icons - March 3, 2026 / Bowling Green, KY

Arts & Sciences, Global Connections, Cultural Legacy, Innovation

March 3, 2026 - Kentucky to the World, in partnership with The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science and the Warren County Public Library, presents Legacy in Motion: LaVelle Smith, Jr.’s Dance Journey From Kentucky to Pop Icons at the Capitol in Downtown Bowling Green, KY.

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Arts & Sciences, Global Connections, Cultural Legacy, Innovation

Arts & Sciences, Innovation

Echoes of Life: Lessons from the Dying Brain

Arts & Sciences, Innovation

On Oct 16, 2025, the Kentucky to the World Republic Bank Foundation Speaker Series presents Dr. Ajmal Zemmar, renowned neuroscientist, in conversation with science writer and longtime KTW collaborator, Ms. Jenni Laidman.

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Arts & Sciences, Innovation

Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation, Statewide

Spectacle of Excess: Wrestling as American Performance Art

Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation, Statewide

WWE legend Al Snow joins wrestling media maven and KTW Board Chair Sam Ford in the ring for a one-of-a-kind live conversation on wrestling as performance art—right in the heart of Kentucky.

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Cultural Legacy, Global Connections, Innovation, Statewide

Cultural Legacy, Tourism & Economic Dev, Louisville Region

Behind the Bat: Jack Hillerich and the Story of Louisville Slugger

Cultural Legacy, Tourism & Economic Dev, Louisville Region

For more than a century, The Louisville Slugger has been more than just a bat; it’s been a symbol of excellence in the world of baseball. But what does it take to build a legacy that spans generations, touches the lives of baseball legends, and transforms an entire industry? Join us on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory - you’ll have the rare opportunity to step inside the heart of this remarkable journey!